CLARK FREEPORT — More than 20 special-shaped balloons will fly the skies of Capas, Tarlac where the 24th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) is scheduled to be held on Feb. 16-18, 2024 at the New Clark City.
Tarlac Governor Susan Yap, during the January edition of Pampanga Press Club’s KapiHann at the Swissotel Clark, said the province will be hosting the PIHABF for five years, starting 2024.
This, she said, is part of the MOA the province recently signed with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) led by president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang and PIHABF President Capt. Joy Roa.
According to Bingcang, the PIHABF will make the NCC — which is now being developed by the BCDA — a very “pleasurable destination for families”.
Yap, for her part, said the province’s business sector is preparing to host the event at the NCC. Security preparations are also being finalized, Yap said.
Meanwhile, businessman Rene G. Romero, who is the coordinator of the Land Rover Club of the Philippines in Central Luzon, expects a boost in the region’s economy, with more or less 120,000 spectators expected daily.
Aside from the balloons, an aerobatics team from England and skydivers will be among the participants in the event, said Capt. Joy Roa of Asian Air Safari, the main organizer of PIHABF.
According to Roa, also part of the 3-day event are an international drone race and musical bands every night. Safety procedures have also been put in place.
Hann, which is the venue of PPC’s monthly forum, signed in as a major sponsor.
